One of the most sophisticated and profound understandings of music is that of Geddy Lee. He can take a sound and make it deeper, giving even the most ephemeral concepts more substance. Thanks to this talent, they have produced some of the most exciting prog-rock albums ever made. Rush’s popularity speaks for itself. The band consistently creates outstanding music, whether they are writing complex, story-driven odysseys or short, radio-friendly songs that last three minutes.
Lee had to listen widely to get to his current level and developed a wide musical taste that he could use to complement the intricate sound he produced. For example, he listened to Led Zeppelin and saw John Paul Jones as the band’s secret to success. This helped him learn how to maintain a strong rhythm section in the face of chaos.
“John Paul Jones‘ bass playing was the thing that held the whole thing down,” he stated. “So, if you listen to ‘How Many More Times,’ I mean, no matter how wild that song gets at times. There’s John Paul Jones just holding it all down in such a fluid way.”
The Who were yet another legendary band that left a lasting impression on Lee. The Who changed people’s perceptions of what an album could be in the same way that they were able to have an impact on a large number of listeners. Throughout their tenure, they disproved the belief they were just a repository for numerous songs. Instead, they demonstrated how to create captivating hits that were all interconnected. Their music offered in-depth storylines and appealed to a range of human emotions.
This experience shaped Rush’s distinct tonal palette, which became evident in each of their albums. They took the lessons The Who taught them about making an album that flows as a single piece of work. Adding their own distinct prog-rock style, they set out to create something specific and cohesive with this record.
The band’s invitation to perform with them for a charitable cause held special significance for Geddy Lee, as he considered their influence a great honor. Even though it wasn’t with the original lineup, Lee still considers that performance to be among his best ever.
“I had the great pleasure of working with the guys and their band, as well as Roger Daltry and Pete Townshend, and helping raise money for the Teenage Cancer Trust in England,” he said. “A few months ago I was invited to join The Who, or The Who Band as they’re called now. It was in London for a charity event celebrating The Who’s 50th anniversary.”
As he took the stage with one of the bands that had influenced his understanding of music, Lee continued to characterise the performance as a dream come true. Despite the fact that not all of the original guys are present, for me it was a dream come true. This band played a huge role in shaping who I am now and what I’ve become. Thus, performing a song live on stage with them was an incredible thrill.
